Introduction
Due to Israel’s war in Gaza, Bolivia became one of the first countries to sever diplomatic ties with it. Deputy Foreign Minister Freddy Mamani stated, “Bolivia decided to break diplomatic relations with the Israeli state in repudiation and condemnation of the aggressive and disproportionate Israeli military offensive taking place in the Gaza Strip.” Moreover, Maria Nela Prada, the minister of the presidency, also announced that the country will provide Gaza with humanitarian aid. She said, “We demand an end to the attacks in the Gaza Strip which have so far caused thousands of civilian deaths and the forced displacement of Palestinians.” Prior to this, Bolivia severed diplomatic ties with Israel in 2009 during the socialist President Evo Morales’ administration over Israel’s actions in Gaza. But in 2020, ties were re-established under the administration of right-wing acting President Jeanine Anez.
Bolivia’s action was criticized by Israel. On the other hand, Hamas applauded Bolivia, stating that it respects it and calling on other Arab nations that have normalized ties with Israel to do the same.
Response of Other Latin American Countries
In protest of Israel’s unacceptable violations of international humanitarian law, Chile, which has the largest Palestinian population outside of the Arab world, recalled its ambassador to Israel. Whereas, the leaders of Chile and Colombia also condemned Israeli attack against the Gazan people. Colombian President Gustavo Petro posted on social media, “I have decided to recall our ambassador to Israel, Margarita Manjarrez, for consultation. If Israel does not stop the massacre of the Palestinian people, we cannot be there.” A ceasefire has also been demanded by nations in Latin America, including Brazil and Mexico. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said, “What we have now is the insanity of Israel’s Prime Minister, who wants to wipe out the Gaza Strip.”
Current Situation in Gaza
Israeli military has surrounded Gaza City and is moving forward. With Israel’s ongoing deadly airstrikes on Gaza, the number of Palestinian enclave deaths has surpassed 9,000 as of 3rd November, 2023. An operation conducted by Israel in the occupied West Bank has also claimed the lives of at least four Palestinians. A representative of the Israeli military added that despite international pressure, a ceasefire is not on the table. Yet, United Nations experts said, “The time for action is now” and have demanded a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza, stating that the Palestinian people are running out of time as they face a “grave risk of genocide.”
Research Associate, Pakistan House